13 Images: The Toyota Rush looks at home in paradise

Every year for the past 14 summers, Toyota Motor Philippines has brought the motoring media to scenic spots within the country, to drive its cars and to appreciate our beautiful sights at the same time. This event is called Road Trek.

This time the Japanese carmaker toured us around its new dealerships in Central Luzon, before flying us to Balesin Island for some down time.

Since this is the year of the subcompact seven-seater, the new Rush was the main attraction. We drove Toyota's subcompact SUV from Manila to our first stop, Toyota Angeles, and then we alternated vehicles after that depending on the outcomes of challenges laid out for us. At some point Toyota PH even pulled a surprise when it unveiled a face-lifted Alphard.

All in all, it was a refreshing respite from Metro Manila and its fast pace.

Now, one must think a Land Cruiser or a Camry might be more suited for an exclusive island getaway like Balesin, but the Rush's design (and our lifestyle editor Elaine Lara's eye for aesthetics) helped it fit in in the stylish locale. Check out our snapshots and see for yourself.

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IMAGE Elaine Lara

Which one is your pick?

IMAGE Elaine Lara

We found nothing wrong with the Alphard's former face, but this is a good-looking minivan.

IMAGE Elaine Lara

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Can you spot the improvements?

IMAGE Elaine Lara

Touchdown Balesin! This is in the Mykonos Village where they serve delicious greek grub.

IMAGE Elaine Lara

Now we're in Toscana Village, which reminds us of a dating reality show for some reason.

IMAGE Elaine Lara

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"Your Rush awaits, Don Pablo."

IMAGE Elaine Lara

The Toyota waits for its VIP to arrive.

IMAGE Elaine Lara

The driver is back from his two-hour lunch break.

IMAGE Elaine Lara

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Even the Rush prefers the shade in this sweltering heat.

IMAGE Elaine Lara

Something for The Gram.

IMAGE Elaine Lara

*secret*

IMAGE Dinzo Tabamo

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Elaine wishes she brought a real photographer along. This shot is barely passable.